Vohemar

Vohemar, also known as Iharana, is a coastal town situated on a peninsula in northern Madagascar in the district of the same name, within the Sava region of the Antsiranana province. The population of Vohemar town is approximately 15,000 and including the surrounding area of Betsimisaraka, Sakalava and Tsimihety tribes, about 30,000. The name originates from Vohitra Maro, meaning where there are many villages.

Vohemar is of ancient islamic origin and was perhaps the first part of Madagascar to be was settled by Arabs. Various muslim graves dating from the 17th and 18th century can be found in this area. The town was once destroyed by the Portuguese.

A Green Lake, also called Andranotsara, can be found 7km to the south. The lake is said to be a former village whose inhabitants were transformed into crocodiles. There is also a strangely green coloured lake, Lac Andranotsara, where there are allegedly many crocodiles.

The local population live from farming, livestock and fishing, while crops grown in the region include cassava, vanilla, maize, rice and peanut.

Vohemar has a hospital and an important maritime harbour. A Bank of Africa, internet cafe and a nightclub named Zanzibar can be found in twon. There is a domestic airport but which is currently (2010) not serviced by Air Madagascar.

The easiest way to reach Vohemar by road is coming from Sambava. The distance is 155km. The road from Diego Suarez is in poor condition and can take up to 14 hours.

Accommodation

La Baie d'Iharana
Tel: +46 (0)32 05131 / cellphone: +261 (0)32 07131 Email: N/A

Sol y Mar
Tel: +261 8806356
Email: solymar-hotel.vohemar@blueline.mg